Marble and travertine; merely cut, by sawing or otherwise, into blocks or slabs of a rectangular (including square) shape, having a specific gravity of 2.5 or more

HS code 251512 covers the classification of marble and travertine that have been cut, sawn, or otherwise processed into rectangular or square blocks or slabs. These natural stone materials are widely used in construction, architecture, and interior design applications due to their durability, aesthetic appeal, and versatility. The global trade in these processed marble and travertine products plays a significant role in the international building materials industry and broader construction sector.

The production of the marble and travertine products covered under HS code 251512 typically involves several key steps. First, large blocks of the natural stone are extracted from quarries using heavy machinery. These raw blocks are then transported to processing facilities where they are cut, sawn, or otherwise shaped into the desired rectangular or square dimensions using specialized stonecutting equipment. The cut slabs may also undergo additional finishing processes such as polishing, honing, or surface treatment to enhance their appearance and properties.

The main inputs required for the production of the goods classified under HS code 251512 include the raw marble and travertine blocks extracted from quarries, as well as the various tools, machinery, and energy sources needed for the cutting, shaping, and finishing processes. This includes diamond-tipped saws, polishing machines, and other specialized stoneworking equipment. Additionally, the industry relies on a skilled workforce of stonemasons, machine operators, and other technical personnel to carry out the production activities.

The primary outputs of the industry covered by HS code 251512 are the finished, cut-to-size marble and travertine blocks and slabs. These products are then consumed by a range of downstream industries, including 441820 Tile and parquet panels, 681011 Building blocks and bricks of cement, concrete or artificial stone, and 680221 Marble, travertine and alabaster, simply cut or sawn, with a flat or even surface, among others. The processed marble and travertine materials are used extensively in construction, interior design, and landscaping applications.